Attractions and Places To See around Grafenau - Top 20

For breathtaking vistas, consider visiting the Großer Rachel Summit, which at 1,453 meters, provides expansive views of the Bavarian and Bohemian Forests. Another excellent option is the Lusen Summit, known for its impressive granite dome and views stretching to the Alpine ridge on clear days. You can also experience unique perspectives from the Baumwipfelpfad Bavarian Forest (Treetop Walk), which offers a canopy-level view of the forest.

Grafenau boasts a rich history, centered around its historic Stadtplatz (Town Square) which features the Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall) dating from 1521, and the Luitpoldbrunnen with its bear statue. You can also visit the unique Schnupftabakmuseum, reportedly the only one of its kind, or explore historical churches like St. Oswald Church (built in 1396) and the Maria Ascension Church with its Baroque design.

Yes, Grafenau offers several family-friendly options. The Bavarian Forest National Park, adjacent to Grafenau, features the Lusen National Park Center with animal enclosures where children can see local wildlife like bison, deer, and wolves. The Baumwipfelpfad Bavarian Forest (Treetop Walk) is also a popular choice for all ages. Additionally, the Martinsklause Reservoir is a picturesque spot suitable for a family outing.

The region around Grafenau is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous hiking opportunities, from easy strolls around the KurErlebnispark BÄREAL to more challenging ascents up the Lusen or Großer Rachel. For specific hiking routes, check out the Easy hikes around Grafenau guide. Mountain biking and road cycling are also popular, with various trails available. Explore options in the MTB Trails around Grafenau and Road Cycling Routes around Grafenau guides.

The best time to visit Grafenau largely depends on your preferred activities. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with beautiful foliage in the fall. Summer is ideal for enjoying the lakes and longer daylight hours. Winter transforms the landscape into a snowy wonderland, suitable for winter hiking and other snow sports, especially in the Bavarian Forest National Park.

Beyond the well-known sights, Grafenau holds some unique spots. The Glas Ark in Bavarian Forest National Park, a fascinating four-and-a-half-meter-long ship made of countless thin sheets of glass, is a remarkable art installation located on the slope of the Lusen mountain. The Schnupftabakmuseum also offers a truly one-of-a-kind cultural experience.

For easier walks, you can explore trails around the KurErlebnispark BÄREAL or the artificial lake in Grafenau. The Easy hikes around Grafenau guide features routes like the 'Kurpark Lake – Kleblmühle Wildlife Enclosure loop' and the 'Grafenau Town Square – Kurpark Lake loop', which are suitable for a relaxed outing.

To delve into the region's forest history, visit the Waldgeschichtliches Museum (Forest History Museum) located in St. Oswald. This museum offers innovative exhibitions that explore the rich history and evolution of the forest in the Bavarian Forest National Park area.

Yes, the Lusen National Park Center, accessible from Grafenau, features extensive animal enclosures. Here, you can observe various local wildlife species such as bison, deer, bears, hawk owls, wolves, and otters in a natural setting, providing an excellent opportunity for wildlife viewing.

Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking views from summits like Lusen Summit and Großer Rachel Summit, often highlighting the impressive granite dome on Lusen. The tranquility and natural beauty of sites like the Martinsklause Reservoir are also highly appreciated, especially as a peaceful rest stop. Many enjoy the unique artistic and historical elements, such as the Glas Ark and the historic town square.

While specific accessibility details for all attractions vary, the Baumwipfelpfad Bavarian Forest (Treetop Walk) is generally designed to be wheelchair and stroller accessible, offering a unique experience above the forest floor. It's always recommended to check directly with individual attractions for the most up-to-date accessibility information.

Grafenau hosts several vibrant festivals throughout the year. These include the Volksfest in July, the Grüner Sonntag (Green Sunday) Art & Culture Festival, the Salzsäumerfest in early August, and the Rockfest at the end of August. An Oktoberfest is held in odd-numbered years, and a Christmas Market brightens the Marktplatz during the holiday season.